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Pentagon Revises Religious Affiliation List Amid Mormon Lawmaker Backlash

KVIA•Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 12:42 PM•CNN Newsource

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The Pentagon has updated its verified religious affiliation list for military personnel after facing criticism for not classifying the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as Christian. Initially, the list included 31 religious categories, with 21 representing various Christian denominations, but omitted the Latter-day Saints. This decision drew ire from lawmakers, including Senator Mike Lee, who called it offensive. In response, the Pentagon released a revised list, removing the 'Christian' label from all denominations. The changes coincide with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's commitment to reform military chaplaincy and streamline religious codes, which have ballooned to over 200. Hegseth emphasized the need for clarity in providing spiritual assistance to service members.

Key Details: • Initial list included 31 religious categories; 21 were Christian. • Senator Mike Lee and Representative Mike Kennedy criticized the omission of Latter-day Saints. • Revised list released following backlash, removing 'Christian' labels. • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth aims to reform military chaplaincy. • Hegseth announced the need for only 31 codes to simplify identification.

military legislation defense religion chaplaincy

People & Organizations

Pete HegsethMike LeeChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsPentagonMike Kennedy

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